I refer to Dubai aims to become top global events destination – but no plans for Olympic Games bid yet (December 4).
The story says that Dubai will leverage its successful bid for World Expo 2020 to spearhead its drive to become the leading destination for international events.
I know that Expo 2020 will change the total scenario in what is already the marketing hub of western Asia.
This Expo will help create a bright future not just for the UAE, but will have a positive effect on neighbouring countries as well.
Harry Purba, India
Drivers must adapt to poor conditions
I refer to Experts uncover causes of extreme weather (December 4), about the spate of storms in the UAE in November.
I believe that drivers in the UAE need to be educated about how to drive in wet and foggy conditions.
If they don’t know, they are a hazard to themselves and other users of the road.
U Bhaji, Dubai
Comments give encouragement
Thank you so much for I can't turn my back on them now (December 4), about my project to help the St Bernard orphanage in the Philippines' Southern Leyte Province.
Awareness goes a long way.
The comments left on your Facebook page are so touching and motivating for me.
I really appreciate, it but I am nothing without the support of friends and family.
Ali Manek, Abu Dhabi
Mall fire must be fully investigated
I was concerned to read Second fire at Al Wahda Mall (December 8).
A thorough investigation should be carried out to determine the exact cause of the blaze so that such a situation will not arise again.
I am glad that mall visitors and staff members were safely evacuated.
Fatima Suhail, Dubai
Mandela’s name will live on forever
It was hard for me to believe it when I heard in the early hours of Friday that Nelson Mandela was no more (World leaders pay tribute to Mandela, December 7).
He was truly an inspiring icon for all people fighting for freedom. His leading role in the battle against the system of racial discrimination practised in South Africa will always be remembered.
Mandela will continue to live deep inside South Africans of all ages, races and religions for years to come. A great era has come to an end.
Ramachandran Nair, Oman
The people of the world feel that someone very near to their hearts has been lost with the passing of the “father of struggles”, Nelson Mandela.
He was a beacon and hope for all the struggling people around the world.
His courage and determination will continue to motivate all those who seek freedom. I salute him.
Santhosh Thomas, India
May you rest in peace, Nelson Mandela – but you are still alive in the memories of all those who love freedom and have paid a great price to get it.
You were the father and grandfather of a nation, and you brought together people who were very much divided.
Goodbye to a real fighter for freedom and one of the most resilient men ever. This really is a sad time for the world.
Samaoen Osman, South Africa
Credit doesn’t do Blanchett justice
The caption below the front-page picture of Cate Blanchett (Superstar Cate shines bright in Dubai, December 8) is out of date.
She will probably be nominated for an Oscar for her role in Blue Jasmine, however that film has not yet been shown in commercial cinemas in the UAE.
Name withheld by request
A few more ‘firsts’ for us to focus on
I refer to New Year, new owner and maybe a world record (December 6), about Atlantis, The Palm's attempt to set a Guinness record for the biggest fireworks display.
I wish that we would also strive to create Guinness records in a few other areas that may be more useful and less polluting to the environment.
Some examples: planting the most trees in one city; becoming the first country with zero-tolerance for plastic bags (by teaching people to take their own bags with them when they go shopping); being the country with the best human-rights record; and being the country where 100 per cent of people are vegetarians.
Brigitte von Bulow, Abu Dhabi
